New Negress Film Society: Black Women Filmmakers Building Community

Established in June 2013 by Kumi James, Nevline Nnaji, Nuotama Bodomo, and Ja'Tovia Gary following a screening of 'I Am A Negress of Noteworthy Talent' at Brooklyn Fireproof, NY, the New Negress Film Society is a group of Black women filmmakers dedicated to fostering community through art and cinema. Their projects encompass experimental films, narratives, and documentaries, all viewed through a feminist perspective focused on the experiences of Black women. The collective has presented their work at venues such as the Hammer Museum, Brooklyn Museum, and the Ann Arbor Film Festival. In March, they hosted their inaugural sold-out annual conference for Black women filmmakers at MoMA PS1, showcasing works by various artists. They are currently developing two narrative features, a documentary, a short documentary, and a drama series, while also seeking funds for future events. Influenced by Kathleen Collins, Julie Dash, and others, they criticize commercial cinema's treatment of Black women directors but acknowledge the presence of female filmmakers in contemporary African cinema.